How Much Does it Cost to Start a Business in Dubai in 2025?
Starting a business in Dubai in 2025 is easier and more flexible than ever. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or an international investor, Dubai offers multiple setup options with varying cost structures. But the big question remains: How much does it actually cost to start a company in Dubai in 2025?
Let’s break it down in detail.
Key Factors That Affect Business Setup Costs
The total cost of setting up a business in Dubai depends on several variables, including:
- Type of Company
- Mainland
- Free Zone
- Offshore
- Business Activity
- Some activities require external approvals (e.g. real estate, healthcare, legal)
- Office Requirements
- Virtual desk, Flexi-desk, Shared office, or Physical office
- Number of Visas Required
- Visa quota influences licensing and facility cost
- Shareholding Structure
- Single owner, corporate shareholder, or partnership
- Add-on Services
- PRO services, legal drafting, document clearing, bank account setup
Business Setup Cost in Dubai Mainland (2025)
| Component | Approx. Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Trade License Fee | 12,000 – 15,000 |
| Name Reservation & Initial Approval | 1,000 – 1,200 |
| Office Space (Mandatory) | 10,000 – 30,000 (varies) |
| Immigration Card & Establishment Card | 2,500 – 3,500 |
| Visa per Partner/Employee | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Medical + Emirates ID | 1,500 – 2,000 per visa |
| PRO & Government Coordination | 2,000 – 4,000 |
Total Estimated Cost: AED 30,000 to AED 50,000+
Mainland setups allow you to operate anywhere in the UAE and bid on government contracts. You’ll need a local office and, in some cases, a UAE national service agent depending on activity type.
Business Setup Cost in Dubai Free Zones (2025)
| Component | Approx. Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Free Zone License Package | 12,000 – 25,000 |
| Office or Flexi Desk (included or extra) | Varies |
| Visa Allocation | 1 – 6 visas per package |
| Establishment Card | 1,000 – 2,500 |
| Investor/Partner Visa | 3,000 – 7,000 |
| Medical + Emirates ID | 1,500 – 2,000 |
Total Estimated Cost: AED 15,000 to AED 35,000
Popular free zones like IFZA, Meydan, SPC, and RAKEZ offer affordable packages with or without office space, making them perfect for startups or international investors.
Offshore Company Setup Cost in Dubai (2025)
| Component | Approx. Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Offshore Company Registration | 12,000 – 18,000 |
| Registered Agent/Service Fees | 5,000 – 7,000 |
| Annual Renewal | 6,000 – 10,000 |
Total Estimated Cost: AED 15,000 to AED 25,000
Offshore setups (JAFZA Offshore, RAK ICC) are used for holding assets, international trading, or privacy-focused structuring. Note: offshore companies cannot issue UAE residence visas or lease physical offices in Dubai.
Annual Renewal & Hidden Costs
Don’t forget about yearly renewal fees:
- Trade license renewal
- Office rent
- Visa renewal & Emirates ID
- Corporate bank account maintenance
- Auditing (mandatory for some activities)
Expect annual costs of AED 10,000 to AED 25,000+ depending on your company type.
Optional Add-Ons by Connectin Business Services LLC
| Service | Cost (AED) |
|---|---|
| Company Stamp & MOA Drafting | 500 – 1,000 |
| Bank Account Opening Assistance | 1,500 – 3,000 |
| VAT Registration & Bookkeeping | 3,000 – 6,000/year |
| Corporate Tax Compliance (2025) | Varies by structure |
Quick Summary Table
| Company Type | Starting Cost (AED) | Visa Eligibility | Office Required | Gov Contract Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mainland | 30,000 – 50,000+ | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Free Zone | 15,000 – 35,000 | ✅ Yes | Optional | ❌ No |
| Offshore | 15,000 – 25,000 | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Final Thoughts: Let Us Simplify It for You
Every business has different needs. At Connectin Business Services LLC, we offer tailored business setup packages, free consultations, and end-to-end support—from licensing to legal documentation, visas, and office selection.
🔹 Want a free quote?
Call us now or WhatsApp us directly. Let’s turn your Dubai business dream into reality—affordably and professionally.